Microsoft’s Digits Device Tracks Hand Gestures

A team of researchers at Microsoft have developed a device that senses hand and finger movements using infrared lasers and cameras. The team is calling the device Digits.

Digits is a gloveless sensor that was developed by one of Microsoft’s R&D teams in Cambridge, UK. Digits attaches to the user’s wrist like a bracelet and the camera rests on the underside. It is reminiscent of Spider-Man’s mechanical web-shooters.

The demo video shows off some impressive technology. One of the highlights is a man controlling a fighting game completely through finger gestures. The device seemed to have incredibly fast response time, as the user alternated from a fist to a pinching motion to extending the hand flat.

The current prototype is tethered to a laptop and a little bigger than might be comfortable for long gaming sessions. The goal is for the finalized product to be wireless and closer to the size of a wristwatch.

The team envisions Digits working in conjunction with Kinect or similar systems as both a gaming controller and a new opportunity for eyes-free control of mobile devices.